Quorum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quorum
[หkwษหrษm ]
Definition
decision-making
A quorum is the minimum number of members required to be present at a meeting to make the proceedings of that meeting valid. This ensures that enough voices are heard to make a proper decision. The specific number that constitutes a quorum can vary according to the governing rules of an organization or legislative body.
Synonyms
majority, minimum attendance, required number.
Examples of usage
- The committee reached a quorum, allowing them to vote on the proposal.
- Without a quorum, the meeting had to be postponed.
- State law mandates a quorum of at least five members for the council meeting.
- We need at least three members present to achieve a quorum for the board.
- A quorum was established with all required participants in attendance.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Political Science
- Quorum requirements ensure that only decisions backed by a sufficient number of members are valid, promoting democratic principles.
- In many legislative bodies, the quorum can vary, but often itโs a simple majority of members.
- Failure to meet quorum can delay or prevent votes, often requiring rescheduling for another date.
Social Dynamics
- The need for a quorum reflects fundamental social agreements about participation and representation in discussions.
- In informal settings, a quorum can exist when enough friends are gathered to make a decision about where to eat.
- Studies show that the presence of a quorum can influence the quality of deliberation, fostering accountability among members.
Technology
- In distributed computing, systems often require a quorum to reach consensus on shared data, ensuring reliability.
- Blockchain technologies use quorum-based mechanisms to validate transactions, enhancing security and trust.
- The concept of quorum in technology came from the necessity to balance workloads and ensure data integrity in networks.
History
- The establishment of quorum in governance dates back to ancient civilizations like Athens, where citizen assemblies required a certain turnout.
- Throughout history, major social movements have highlighted the need for a quorum to validate representation and voice.
- The evolving definition of quorum showcases shifts in societal norms about inclusion and majority rules.
Origin of 'quorum'
Main points about word origin
- The word originated from Latin, specifically 'quorum' as a form of 'qui', meaning 'who'.
- In the 17th century, it was used in the context of legal and administrative settings.
- The term was notably adopted by the British legal system, allowing important decisions to only be made with a representative assembly.
The term 'quorum' originates from the Latin word 'quorum,' which means 'of whom.' It was first used in the legal context in the 17th century, particularly in England, as a reference to the number of judges needed to make a legal decisiveness. The concept has evolved to encompass various types of assemblies, including legislative bodies and corporate meetings. Its history reflects the broader democratic principle of ensuring that decisions are made by a sufficient number of representatives rather than a mere few, promoting accountability and legitimacy in collective decision-making processes.